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 Enjoy a journey from Melbourne’s famed winelands to the diverse environment of Uluru, the UNESCO World Heritage sites of the Wet Tropics of Queensland & the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park, to the iconic sites of Sydney. Australia’s spectacular natural environment, vibrant multicultural communities, world-class food and wine, welcoming climate, and the friendliness and openness of its people make it one of the world’s most attractive destinations for LGBTQ+ travelers.
Brand g has curated a journey featuring some of Australia’s most iconic cities, sights, and experiences — all thoughtfully designed as an intimate, fully hosted land exploration tailored specifically for our LGBTQ+ guests.
Fly once and see two countries:
This trip is scheduled back to back with our New Zealand Highlights Luxury Gay Tour, April 16 - 29, 2027, so that you can fly to the South Pacific once and see two countries.
Day 1 - Thursday, April 29, 2027
Welcome to Australia! On arrival into Melbourne you will be met in the arrivals hall, and transferred to the 1 Hotel, a sustainable luxury sanctuary nestled on the banks of the Yarra River in Melbourne’s Central Business District.
Tonight enjoy a welcome dinner at a local restaurant and get to know your Brand g traveling companions.
Meals: Welcome Dinner
Hotel: 1 Hotel Melbourne, Melbourne, 5*
Day 2 - Friday, April 30, 2027
After a leisurely breakfast, meet your Brand g hosts and a local historian in the hotel lobby and commence a walking tour through the heart of ‘Marvelous Melbourne’. Your journey starts with a ride on one of Melbourne’s iconic and much-loved trams (trolley cars). Your guide will lead you through the city’s fascinating labyrinth of atmospheric arcades and alleyways – you will discover lanes filled with trendy cafes and eclectic boutiques not to mention some ‘out there’ graffiti street art and of course you will have plenty of time along on the way to admire landmark buildings like the Block Arcade with its dazzlingly high Victorian interior decoration or some truly grand 19th century commercial buildings like the Gothic Bank. You will see the hand of progress as you encounter buildings that have been renewed and transformed like old General Post Office. This Arcades and Alleyways tour is a wonderful way to discover Melbourne’s architectural and cultural heritage.
Next, we take a short walk to the National Gallery of Victoria, located at Federation Square, for an exclusive insider experience. The National Gallery of Victoria Australia’s collection incorporates some very exciting exhibitions including a curatorial Fashion & Textiles collection inspired by historical and contemporary design. All the very best Australian artists are represented in the extensive collections across this magnificent gallery.
Later we board our coach and head down to the seaside suburb of St Kilda for lunch.
After lunch, on our way back to your hotel, we’ll visit important landmarks and venues significant to the LGBTQ+ community including the new Victorian Pride Centre, learn about the history of the area, and end with a drink in a gay-friendly bar in the city, The Prince Bar & Pub which is located at a few minutes’ walk from the Pride Centre.
After returning to the hotel, the remainder of the day is at leisure, and dinner is on your own.
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Hotel: 1 Hotel Melbourne, Melbourne, 5*
Day 3 - Saturday, May 1, 2027
In the morning, enjoy a stunning drive to the stunning Mornington Peninsula. Visit, Moonlit Sanctuary, a wildlife Conservation Park home to some of Australia’s most iconic furry friends. Here, alongside your dedicated Sanctuary Keeper, meet the who’s, who of Australian animals, before hand-feeding some local Kangaroos and Wallabies! Finally, the opportunity will present itself to view the iconic Koala and other unique animals such as Dingos, Wombats and the Tasmanian Devil.
Next, we visit Pt Leo Estate, a unique winery with a twist! As you meander up the driveway and past the cascading vines, you are welcomed with the sight of an inspiring Grand Arch, a 70-year old Queensland King bottle tree and a doorway that offers a teasing glimpse of something truly remarkable. Before indulging in a 3-course shared lunch at Pt Leo Restaurant, join your host on a private tour through the expansive sculpture garden overlooking Western Port Bay to Phillip Island.
Conclude today with a scenic drive back to Melbourne. Tonight, dinner is on your own.
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Hotel: 1 Hotel Melbourne, Melbourne, 5*
Day 4 - Sunday, May 2, 2027
Meet your fellow guests and hosts in the lobby and transfer by coach to the Melbourne Airport for your onward flight to Uluru. On arrival, we will be met by our knowledgeable local guide and travel to Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park; a place where unique flora and fauna thrive. Here our expert local guide will reveal the many attributes of this diverse environment and describe the cultural significance of Kata Tjuta as a sacred Aboriginal men’s ceremonial site. Arriving at Walpa Gorge you will walk between the mighty conglomerate domes and hear how these 36 domes that make up Kata Tjuta have evolved over millions of years. Take time to listen to the wind (Walpa) far above and view the scale of the rock walls that surround you. The spirituality of this amazing location embraces everyone who ventures here.
Later we arrive to our accommodations, the five star Sails in the Desert hotel, where you’ll enjoy an included lunch before checking in to your room, where you’ll have some time to refresh before dinner tonight at the hotel.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Hotel: Sails in the Desert Hotel , Uluru, 5*
Day 5 - Monday, May 3, 2027
Today, rise early and experience acclaimed artist Bruce Munro’s Field of Light, a once-in-a-lifetime event in Uluru. Under cover of darkness, wander through 50,000 magical hand-crafted frosted glass spheres of light, in colors of ochre, deep violet, blue and gentle white. Then make your way to the dune top, where you’ll be served tea, coffee or hot chocolate. Watch in awe as the sun pops up in the distance behind Uluru, flooding the landscape, including Kata Tjuta behind you, with light. As the landscape brightens, the Field of Light will dim for the day. There’s a chance for some amazing photos from this unique raised location that allows you to view both Kata Tjuta and Uluru in all their natural glory.
After Sunrise, we return to the hotel for a hot breakfast.
Later this morning, we meet our driver/guide in the hotel lobby and head to the Maruku Arts market stall for a fun dot painting workshop — hosted by local Anangu artists — and learn about traditional Aboriginal dot painting through the ancient symbols of the desert. Create your own masterpiece under expert guidance and take home this incredible souvenir as a memento of your adventure.
Enjoy lunch on your own either at the café in Cultural Center or at the hotel before and afternoon at your leisure.
This evening we’ll enjoy the ‘Sounds of Silence’ Dinner. Departing the hotel, we’ll travel out to a remote setting in the vast Australian desert. As the sun dips behind the many domes of Kata Tjuta (Olgas) and Uluru, enjoy sparkling wine and canapes while listening to the haunting sounds of the didgeridoo. After a gourmet Bush-Tucker inspired dinner the lanterns will be dimmed. Hear the sounds of the great Outback while an astronomer takes you on a tour of the southern night skies. View the stars through an onsite telescope before returning to your hotel for a restful night’s sleep.
Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
Hotel: Sails in the Desert Hotel, Uluru, 5*
Day 6 - Tuesday, May 4, 2027
After breakfast this morning, we check out and board our coach to transfer to Ayers Rock Airport for your flight to Cairns. Upon arrival at Cairns airport, we transfer to our accommodation, the Crystalbrook Riley Hotel, where you’ll have some time to relax before dinner tonight at the hotel.
Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
Hotel: Crystalbrook Riley Hotel, Cairns, 5*
Day 7 - Wednesday, May 5, 2027
Today features a full day exploration of the Great Barrier Reef. Travel to the Outer Barrier Reef from Cairns to the reef activity platforms moored in protective lagoons on the edge of the Great Barrier Reef. Lying within the World Heritage Great Barrier Reef Marine Park, this section of the Great Barrier Reef is renowned for its water clarity and coral formations. The reef is ideal for swimming and snorkeling and is amongst the best in the world. Here you can explore the reef in the comfort of a semi-submersible, an underwater observatory, or snorkel in a unique underwater world. All snorkeling equipment is included, as is morning and afternoon tea and an extensive buffet lunch.
After returning to Cairns, the remainder of the day is at your leisure, with dinner on your own.
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Hotel: Crystalbrook Riley Hotel, Cairns, 5*
Day 8 - Thursday, May 6, 2027
After breakfast this morning we make our way to the Skyrail Smithfield Terminal to begin our tour of Kuranda via the Skyrail & Scenic Rail. Our guide will share their local knowledge as we enjoy our journey to Kuranda Village on the Skyrail, soaring over and through the ancient rainforest. Marvel at the spectacular views and take the time to explore the 2 rainforest station boardwalks along the way. Once you disembark Skyrail in Kuranda, we’ll be greeted by our driver-guide, who will escort us to the famous Heritage Markets. You’ll have free time for lunch in the market on your own, where you can choose from many local cafes and outlets available in the market.
After exploring the village, we’ll be transferred to Kuranda Station to board the historic Kuranda Scenic Rail for our return journey in Gold Class service. Gold Class features local drinks and snacks, comfortable individual lounge seating and a dedicated hostess as we make our journey down the rainforest mountain. We disembark the Scenic Rail at Freshwater Station where our driver meet us for the short return trip to our hotel.
Tonight we enjoy dinner together at the hotel.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Hotel: Crystalbrook Riley Hotel, Cairns, 5*
Day 9 - Friday, May 7, 2027
After a morning at leisure we transfer to Cairns airport for our flight to Sydney.
On arrival in Sydney, we are met by our driver for a transfer to the Capella Sydney Hotel. Upon arrival, check in and enjoy some time to relax and settle into your room before we gather for dinner at the hotel.
Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
Hotel: Capella Sydney Hotel, Sydney, 5*
Day 10 - Saturday, May 08, 2027
Today, following breakfast we set off on a full-day tour of the highlights of Sydney, from city to surf.
Starting in the city’s historic Rocks precinct, you will learn of Sydney’s colonial past, gain an insight into her ancient Indigenous culture and take a glimpse into her future with her newest state-of-the art developments. Continue through the beautiful Royal Botanic Garden to one of Sydney’s most spectacular vantage points – Mrs Macquarie’s Chair. This garden paradise, in the heart of the city, is a favorite with Sydneysiders and tourists alike – it’s also the perfect place to take photos of our famous icons, the Sydney Opera House and Harbor Bridge.
After exploring the wonders of the city of Sydney head east via Woolloomooloo, an eclectic precinct that is home to celebrities, a naval base and the famous Harry’s Cafe de Wheels pie cart. Continue onwards to the sights and color of Sydney’s red-light district of Kings Cross. In contrast are the terraced and trendy streets of Paddington, famous for its boutique shopping, coffee culture, art galleries and laneways full of surprises. Here, stop and enjoy morning tea before travelling through the affluent waterfront suburbs of Double Bay and Rose Bay.
Pass the harborside playground of Nielson Park, historic Vaucluse House and The Gap at Watson’s Bay with its magnificent coastal cliffs view. Take a walk around spectacular South Head and visit Centennial Park, another popular Sydneysiders’ playground. Again, this beautiful park is a stone’s throw from the city, but a true escape with its walking, jogging, cycling and horse riding paths as well as its picturesque picnic grounds and beautiful ponds with their ducks and swans.
Journey on to iconic Bondi Beach where lunch is included. After, we drive back to the city through the leafy suburb of Woollahra and trendy Darlinghurst with its stylish bars and eateries.
Our tour concludes with a private exclusive tour of the Sydney Opera House. Step beneath the sails and discover what makes the Opera House so inspiring. Discover insider secrets and stories of the Opera House artists and performances, and step inside the iconic theatres and foyers that bring to life over 1800 performances each year. Explore the building with a knowledgeable Sydney Opera House guide, learn about how Jorn Utzon’s vision came into existence against impossible odds, and capture photographs from rare vantage points, off limits to the general public.
After returning to the hotel, you are at your leisure for the evening, with dinner on your own.
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Hotel: Capella Sydney Hotel, Sydney, 5*
Day 11 - Sunday, May 9, 2027
After breakfast, we meet in the lobby and depart on a full day private tour of the Blue Mountains.
The Blue Mountains National Park is one of seven national parks that make up the Greater Blue Mountains World Heritage Area. This wonderland of sandstone outcrops, deep ravines and hazy blue eucalypt forests boasts luxury retreats and stunning views. Today your guide will take you off the beaten track to visit remote lookout locations and discuss the history, flora and fauna of this magnificent region.
Our first stop of the day is at Calmsley Hill a working farm also home to Kangaroos, Emus, Wombats and Koalas. Enjoy morning tea and time to wander at leisure. From Calmsley Hill we continue to ascend the Blue Mountains via the highway. We will visit one of a range of stunning outlooks of the Jamison Valley seeing beautiful vistas. Continuing we arrive at Eaglehawk Lookout, a remote lookout point away from the crowds for views of the famous Three Sisters. While the Blue Mountains features so much more than this natural attraction you can’t help but admire the unquestionable beauty of this amazing rock formation. Here you will hear from your guide about the legends behind this famous rock formation and time for you to take some great photos.
We then make our way around the mountain towards the village of Blackheath and our lunch destination is Echoes Restaurant, perched at the absolute edge of the World Heritage listed Blue Mountains National Park, with views of mountains, cliff edges and lush rainforest valleys right through the Jamison Valley to Mittagong, with views up to 80 kilometres away.
After lunch we visit Govetts Leap, one of the most famous lookouts in Australia. The magnificent waterfall drops a whopping 180m to the base of the cliff. Our last stop at the Blue Mountains Botanic Gardens where there’s time for a short inspection of the flora including the ancient Wollemi Pine (Wollemi a Nobilis).
From here we commence our return to the city, arriving at our hotel at approximately 4:30/5.00 pm. Tonight you are at leisure and dinner is on your own.
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Hotel: Capella Sydney Hotel, Sydney, 5*
Day 12 - Monday, May 10, 2027
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast and a day at leisure to explore independently, or perhaps take in one of the optional add-on experiences offered.
Later in the afternoon, meet in the hotel lobby before departing for a private charter cruise, including a farewell dinner at a local restaurant in Sydney.
Your experience includes a private charter boat offering a relaxed and elegant way to explore Sydney Harbor. Enjoy a selection of beverages and light refreshments on board as you take in panoramic views of the city’s iconic skyline and landmarks. The cruise provides the perfect setting to unwind, share memories of your journey, and celebrate the final evening together. The evening unfolds at a relaxed pace, allowing you to soak in the scenery and atmosphere before stepping ashore for a memorable dining experience at a harborside setting.
After dinner, rejoin your cruiser for a tranquil return journey across the glittering waters, complemented by a selection of fine cheeses and the breathtaking backdrop of Sydney by night. This refined dinner cruise offers an unforgettable way to enjoy the city’s beauty, charm, and culinary delights from the water.
At the end of the evening, we return to the hotel for a final restful night before returning home.
Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
Hotel: Capella Sydney Hotel, Sydney, 5*
Day 13 - Tuesday, May 11, 2027
Following breakfast and check-out, transfer to Sydney Airport. Proceed for check-in and boarding for your outbound flight.
Meals: Breakfast
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• Visit Melbourne’s fascinating labyrinth of atmospheric arcades and alleyways, trendy cafes and eclectic boutiques not to mention some 'out there' graffiti and street art
• Ride along Victoria’s iconic Great Ocean Road for spectacular coastal and rainforest scenery, native wildlife sightings and the famous Twelve Apostles (with just the 8 still standing!)
• Discover Australia's unique animals and birds, including the remarkable duck-billed platypus, the lyrebird and of course kangaroos and koalas
• A trip to Mornington Peninsula, a must for nature lovers and those seeking a unique Australian experience
• Take in majestic Uluru and indulge in the award-winning 'Sounds of Silence' dinner under the outback sky with the once-in-a-lifetime 'Field of Light' art installation
• Explore the quaint village of Kuranda visiting the famous market, boutique stores and arts & crafts
• Venture out to the Great Barrier Reef with its rich, diverse coral gardens
• Experience Sydney's natural beauty and culture around Sydney Harbour and the historic Rocks
• Enjoy your hands-on interaction with Australian native wildlife during your tour at Taronga Zoo
• Tour the iconic Sydney Opera House, the busiest performing arts center in the world
• FROM THE TIME YOU LAND UNTIL YOU LEAVE, NEARLY EVERYTHING IS INCLUDED
• Brand g and local host(s) throughout your trip
• Airport arrival and departure transfers
• Three nights hotel accommodation at the 1 Hotel Melbourne
• Welcome dinner in Melbourne
• Two nights hotel accommodation at Sails in the Desert - Uluru
• Three nights hotel accommodation at the Crystalbrook Riley Hotel in Cairns
• All internal flights Melbourne/Uluru, Uluru/Cairns and Cairns/Sydney
• Four nights hotel accommodation at Capella Sydney
• All touring meals as described in the trip itinerary.
1 Hotel Melbourne, Melbourne
1 Hotel Melbourne is situated in Melbourne city centre, offering easy access to key attractions. The hotel is a 9-minute walk from Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre and less than 1 km from Marvel Stadium.
Guests enjoy spa facilities, a sauna, fitness centre, indoor swimming pool, and a serene garden. Additional amenities include a steam room, hot tub, and yoga classes. Free WiFi is available throughout the property.
Rooms feature air-conditioning, private bathrooms, minibars, and city views. Additional comforts include bathrobes, soundproofing, and parquet floors. Family rooms and interconnected rooms cater to all travellers.
The modern restaurant serves Australian cuisine with brunch, lunch, and dinner options. Breakfast includes local specialities, fresh pastries, and vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. Live music enhances the dining experience.
Sails in the Desert Hotel, Uluru
Perfectly positioned to make the most of the Australian outback, Sails in the Desert is just a 5-minute walk from the Uluru (Ayers Rock) lookout and is a great spot to take in the desert sunrise or sunset. The property boasts an outdoor swimming pool, a tennis court and a relaxing day spa.
The air-conditioned rooms have a minibar and tea and coffee making facilities. Each room has a private bathroom with bathrobes, a hairdryer and free toiletries. Some rooms also have a private balcony.
The property also features a bar and a range of dining options. The staff can assist you to organise a range of outback experiences including camel rides, scenic flights and dinner under the stars.
The decor at Sails in the Desert is inspired by Aboriginal culture, and the hotel features original Aboriginal artworks throughout the public areas and in the guest rooms. The onsite Mulgara Gallery also showcases an impressive range of Indigenous art.
Crystalbrook Riley Hotel, Cairns
Centrally located at the northern end of Cairns iconic waterfront Esplanade, Crystalbrook Riley features 311 stylish rooms and suites, three restaurants and bars including Cairns’ highest rooftop bar, Rocco, an expansive lagoon pool and private beach, the stunning Eléme Day Spa, functions and events spaces and a 24-hour fitness centre.
Most of Riley’s contemporary rooms have spacious balconies. Each room features its own Apple iPad control centre complete with healthy living apps, a 55-inch Smart TV, Staycast by Google for video streaming, access to hundreds of complimentary movies and box sets, blackout blinds, a rainforest shower head and Nespresso coffee machine with recyclable pods. All public and in-room areas are equipped with free Wi-Fi.
Breakfast is served daily at the property. Enjoy modern dining at Paper Crane restaurant and bar or indulge in 24-hour in-room dining. Greenfields and Rocco, Cairns’ highest rooftop bar, are open for guests to enjoy at the property.
You can lounge poolside in a cabana or at Riley’s man-made beach, or do laps in the lap pool. There is also a 24-hour fitness centre at the property. Watch one of 200 free recent release movies or stream straight from your in-room Apple iPad. You can also book your trip to the Reef or beyond from the interactive lobby tour space.
Capella Sydney Hotel, Sydney
Capella Sydney in Sydney offers a 5-star hotel experience with spa facilities, a wellness centre, sauna, fitness centre, indoor swimming pool, and free WiFi.
Located 12 km from Sydney Kingsford Smith Airport, the hotel is near attractions such as The Royal Botanic Gardens (7-minute walk), Sydney Opera House (less than 1 km), and Circular Quay (4-minute walk).
Guests enjoy private check-in and check-out, a lounge, beauty services, steam room, wellness packages, fitness room, hot tub, 24-hour front desk, concierge service, and electric vehicle charging station.
The restaurant serves Australian and international cuisines with vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free options. Breakfast is available as a buffet or à la carte.
When should I schedule my flights?
Arrival: You should schedule your flights to arrive to Melbourne Airport (MEL) by April 29, 2027 The first activity that day will be at approximately 5:30pm.
Departure: You should schedule your flights to depart from Sydney International Airport (SYD) at any time on April 11, 2027. Check out time from the hotel is 11:00am.
What are the passport or visa requirements?
A passport, which is valid at the time of entry, is required for this trip.
Citizens of the United States (as well as many other countries) traveling to Australia must have a valid passport and a visa or an approved Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) to enter Australia. Most passport holders traveling to Australia for tourism for less than 90 days can obtain an ETA. The ETA is an electronic label-free visa and can be obtained at the ETA website.
If you are travelling on a valid U.S. ePassport (a passport that contains an electronic chip) and are 16 years of age or older, you are eligible to use Australia’s automated border processing system, SmartGate, upon arrival in Australia (SmartGate kiosks are available only at participating airports). There is no additional enrollment process or fee to use SmartGate. Visit the SmartGate website for more information and for a list of participating airports in Australia.
What arrival and departure transfers are included?
This package includes an arrival transfer from the Melbourne Airport to the host Melbourne hotel and a departure transfer from the host Sydney hotel to Sydney International Airport. If you extend your stay at these properties, the transfers will still be included.
Contact our team to ensure arrangements outside of these arrival and departure transfers will be included. Booked guests should provide their arrival and departure details 45 days prior to the trip to ensure transfer availability.
What if I have dietary requirements?
We will make every effort to accommodate special dietary requests. Please inform our office at least 45 days prior to departure of these requests.
What are pre-paid gratuities?
Gratuities are customary expressions of appreciation for a job well done. It is our goal to ensure that the service you receive is as wonderful as the sites you visit. Gratuities for the included portions of this program have been pre-paid. At your own discretion you may choose to provide additional tips.
What should I expect on the included tours?
Excursions during your travel program are mostly in groups of 25 or fewer people and are led by expert English speaking local guides. Utilizing wireless audio guides enables you to hear every word of your travel guide at absolutely all times. It provides maximum flexibility and convenience without missing a moment of fascinating commentary and is compatible with hearing aids.
Is there a dress code?
You are on vacation as the last thing we want to impose is a dress code. We will however appreciate you wearing more than a thong or mankini at lunch and dinner. Be as dressed up or down as you see fit as long as you are comfortable and dress appropriately for changeable weather.
Are vaccinations required?
Most US travelers are covered by routine vaccinations. US citizens should consult the Centers for Disease Control website or your health care provider for vaccination requirements and recommendations. Citizens of all other countries should consult their government’s national disease center or their physician.
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